LIV Golf was always a legitimate threat, but it became much more of a legitimate tour when it got the defending Masters Champion to join.
Jon Rahm shocked the golf world in December when, after much criticism of the new tour, he joined LIV for what’s assumed to be an absurd amount of money.
Rahm previously stated that he does not consider 54-hole tournaments to be true golf and claimed that receiving $400 million would not alter his lifestyle.
Despite this, when a rumored offer amounting to $600 million surfaced, Rahm joined the Saudi-funded league.
“Indeed, the large sum of money is appealing, and it appears that Rahm was aware of the consequences when he agreed to it – in exchange for a substantial salary, his reputation in the golf world would be altered permanently, despite his victory at the Masters in April.”
Rahm did not win just the green jacket, but also had many other accomplishments.
Before joining LIV, he achieved victory in 11 PGA tournaments, including the U.S. Open in 2021.
The professional golfer who has won two major championships implied that there is one significant aspect of the PGA Tour that he misses.
He stated on Tuesday that it has not been easy as many predicted, not being able to defend the titles he wanted to defend, according to Barstool Sports.
Rahm expressed his disappointment at being unable to participate in the Genesis Invitational at Riviera and The Sentry in Hawaii. He also noted the challenge of not being able to attend the Waste Management Phoenix Open.
Rahm will defend his previous win at Augusta National and will present the green jacket to the next winner, unless he wins again. “It’s a difficult choice to make since I have had a successful career and have been content.
However, there are many appealing aspects of LIV Golf, particularly team golf,” he informed Fox News’ Bret Baier during his LIV announcement.
Being a part of a team has always been significant to me in my professional journey.” Currently, that is the only thing he can protect against the remainder of the PGA Tour.
“Yes, the financial aspect is quite appealing,” he went on to say. “Of course, it’s great.
However, as I have mentioned previously, my motivation for playing golf is not driven by money.
I am motivated by my passion for the sport and my love for golf.
Nevertheless, as a husband, father, and a family-oriented person, I feel responsible for providing my family with the best possible opportunities and resources.
This is where financial considerations come into play.
Undoubtedly, money is a factor, and it did play a significant role in making this decision.”